
#2 - Fear and Loathing in the New Jerusalem, pt. 2
The Martyr Made Podcast
The Neby Musa Riot of 1920 and its Impact on Zionist Movement
The British prevented people from moving around the city, leaving Jewish defense units unable to help. Martial law was imposed, resulting in 5 dead Jews and 200 wounded. Jewish militias were prevented from joining the fighting, leaving women and children defenseless. Many of the wounded suffered from sexual violence. On the Arab side, 4 were dead and dozens wounded. The conflict between Jews and Arabs raises questions about whether it could have been avoided. The Neby Musa riot of 1920 may have been a turning point. After the riots, both Arabs and Jews were unhappy with the British. The situation resembled an old-fashioned pogrom to many Jews. The British failed to fulfill their promises to the Arabs, leading to further discontent. Some evidence suggests foreknowledge of the riots. Overall, tensions remained high in Palestine.